Category: Testimony

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Geoff Miller OBE – Pen Portrait

Geoffrey Miller OBE, is a respected figure in English cricket whose influence has spanned playing, leadership, and administration. Born on 08 September 1952 in Chesterfield, England, Miller established himself as a reliable off-spin bowler and a determined lower-order batsman during a professional career that stretched from the mid-1970s to the early 1990s.

Geoff played in 34 Test matches and 25 One Day Internationals for the England cricket team between 1976 and 1984. Nicknamed “Dusty”, he played for Derbyshire from 1973 to 1986, captaining the team from 1979 to 1981 (following the sudden resignation of David Steele after six weeks in the role), and returned in 1990 after playing for Essex between 1987 and 1989. He was an England selector from 2008 to 2013 and was appointed President of Derbyshire C.C.C. in March 2014. He was a part of the English squad which finished as runners-up at the 1979 Cricket World Cup.

Geoff spent the majority of his domestic career with Derbyshire County Cricket Club, where he became one of the county’s most dependable all-round contributors. Known for his accuracy and tactical intelligence, his off-spin bowling often played a crucial role in controlling the pace of matches. His leadership qualities were recognised when he captained Derbyshire for several seasons, earning respect for his calm authority and thoughtful approach to the game.

After retiring from playing, Geoff remained deeply involved in cricket administration. He served as the national selector for England and chaired the selection panel for several years, helping to shape the development of the national side. His ability to assess talent and support emerging players made him a respected voice within the sport.

In recognition of his services to cricket, Geoff was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2013 honours list. Today, he is widely regarded as a thoughtful ambassador for the game, remembered not only for his contributions on the field but also for his lasting impact on English cricket leadership and development.

Sushil Sidhu – March 2026

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GCCC Panel 04 Mar 2026, David Graveney OBE, Peter Matthews and Craig Miles

CCS welcomed a distinguished panel from Gloucestershire County Cricket Club for our penultimate speaker meeting of March, providing members with an engaging and informative evening.

The panel featured Gloucestershire legend, CCS Vice President and favourite, David Graveney OBE, who stepped in at short notice for Jon Lewis, alongside Peter Matthews (GCCC Executive Chair) and re-signed accomplished seam bowler Craig Miles.

David, as always proved to be a hugely experienced, articulate and measured speaker. Drawing on his time as chairman of the England Test selectors, he spoke with authority about leadership, decision-making and the importance of clear processes which he has put to good effect at GCCC. He explained how structured systems guide everything at Gloucestershire, from the appointment of a groundsman to the role and responsibilities of a Director of Cricket. His experience as a selector also allowed him to reflect thoughtfully on evaluating players across counties and understanding the wider domestic game.

Peter spoke with confidence and optimism about the future of the club. While cricketing questions were largely directed towards David, Peter provided valuable insight into the commercial realities of running a county cricket club. He discussed the impact of The Hundred, the importance of the Cheltenham Cricket Festival, and the role of domestic and international fixtures in the club’s financial stability. He noted that as few as ten good uninterrupted days of cricket in Cheltenham or Bristol can make a significant difference financially to the club’s season and profitability.

The lively Q&A session provided members with fascinating updates, including how investment from The Hundred has helped GCCC become debt-free and contributed to the funding of approximately £3m of infrastructure improvements at the County Ground, Bristol. These infrastructure projects will provide upgrades and the modernisation of player and officials’ facilities. This will help ensuring Nevil Road remains compliant for major international events and safeguarding its status as an international ground beyond 2031.

Craig added an insightful player’s perspective, speaking candidly about the physical demands, scrutiny and career challenges of professional cricket especially moving between several counties.

Thanks are due as usual to Ian Randall for guiding the discussion with thoughtful questions, helping to create a thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening evening for all CCS members.

Paddy Murphy / Sushil Sidhu – Mar 2026

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Mike Procter : 1946 – 2024

Mike Procter – August 2022

Cally Barlow, Cheltenham Cricket Society President, has kindly provided a heart warming and unique tribute to a true cricketing legend, servant of the game and friend.

“Mike who?”  He said 

“You know that guy who bowled off the wrong foot.”

“Oh you mean the Rhodesian all rounder who they named a county after, Proctershire wasn’t it?”

“Yeah but he was born and raised in Durban.  Played for Rhodesia though as it was a Cricket province of South Africa in those days.”

“Played for South Africa too didn’t he?”

“Yup but not for long as they were banned.”

“Ah yes along with all his mates.”

“Why are you telling me this?”

“Well, sadly he died a few weeks ago, only 77.  Those of us who knew him and those who only watched him will miss him.  Taken far too young and when he was doing such amazing work with his Foundation for underprivileged children outside Durban.”

“That’s shocking and sad for the children.  I hope someone carries it on.”

“Another great the wrong side of the earth but we should look on the bright side.”

“There is a bright side?”

“Oh yes. He’ll now be shoring up the South African Heaven’s XI and making them as invincible as the team he played in the 1960s – and sinking a few reds with them all.”

“Go well Proccie.  You shone your light brightly and gave pleasure to thousands.”

Cally Barlow, February 2024